Characterization of Human-Induced Neural Stem Cells and Derivatives following Transplantation into the Central Nervous System of a Nonhuman Primate and Rats

Stem Cells International, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/1396735 · Published: December 28, 2022

Simple Explanation

The study reprogrammed human blood cells into induced Neural Stem Cells (iNSCs) with a GFP tag for tracking. These iNSCs could become specialized cells like dopaminergic precursors (DAPs) and motor neuron precursors (MNPs). iNSCs were implanted into a monkey's brain and iNSC-DAPs into areas affected by Parkinson's. The iNSCs turned into mature neurons, and iNSC-DAPs matured into dopamine neurons. iNSC-MNPs also became motor neurons when put into rat spinal cords. The findings suggest iNSCs and their derivatives could potentially treat neurological diseases, showing promise for cell-based therapies.

Study Duration

3 Months

Participants

One healthy female rhesus monkey and three rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Human iNSCs can be successfully engrafted into the motor cortex of a non-human primate and differentiate into mature neurons.
2
iNSC-derived dopaminergic precursors (DAPs) can survive and mature into dopamine neurons when transplanted into the striatum and substantia nigra of a non-human primate.
3
iNSC-derived motor neuron precursors (MNPs) can survive and differentiate into motor neurons after being transplanted into the spinal cord of rats.

Research Summary

The study focuses on characterizing human-induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) and their derivatives after transplantation into the central nervous system of a nonhuman primate and rats. The researchers reprogrammed human peripheral blood mononuclear cells into iNSCs, inserted a GFP gene for tracking, and then differentiated these iNSCs into dopaminergic precursors (DAPs) and motor neuron precursors (MNPs). The transplanted iNSCs and their derivatives survived, differentiated into appropriate cell types, and exhibited functionality in the respective brain regions of the animal models, suggesting their potential for treating neurological diseases.

Practical Implications

Cellular Therapy Potential

iNSCs and their derivatives offer a potential cellular source for treating various neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease and spinal cord injuries.

Understanding Differentiation

The study provides insights into the differentiation capacity of iNSCs and their ability to respond to the microenvironment of the central nervous system, which can inform future cell-based therapy strategies.

Preclinical Validation

The successful transplantation and differentiation of iNSCs in a nonhuman primate model provide preclinical validation for the use of iNSCs in future clinical trials.

Study Limitations

1
Limited sample size of the animal models.
2
Short observation period of three months following transplantation in the non-human primate, which limits the assessment of long-term survival and functionality.
3
The study focuses primarily on the survival and differentiation of iNSCs and their derivatives, with limited investigation into their functional integration and impact on the host circuitry.

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